Barbour Mausoleum

The mausoleum, perhaps more accurately described as a vault, is a low rectangular structure with a stepped stone slab roof capped with a ‘tomb top’ decorated with a cross. The building stands on a plinth with a series of squat pilasters dividing the walls into panels that contain memorials to members of the family. The whole structure is partially submerged in a bank of earth, but with one side more exposed than the others. This ‘taller’ face of the mausoleum looks out over the churchyard wall across the valley to Bolesworth Castle.

Architect

Thomas Meakin Lockwood

Style

Listing

Grade II (England and Wales)

Year built

1880

History

Robert Barbour (1797-1885) was a cotton merchant, originally from Scotland. He was married twice, and both his wives were of Scottish descent. He purchased Bolesworth Castle in 1857, was High Sheriff of the County in 1866, and died in 1885, leaving the estate to his son George Barbour (1841-1919). It is not known whether the mausoleum was built by Robert Barbour during his lifetime, or by George Barbour soon after his father’s death. Either way it is likely to be the work of the Chester architect, Thomas Lockwood, as he was very active on the estate at this time. It remains in the hands of the family to this day.

Condition

The mausoleum’s condition has declined since last photographed in 2002 and is in need of some maintenance and repair. It does not appear than any interments have taken place in the last 20 years although some Barbour family members have been buried alongside.